In 1994 I was diagnosed with celiac disease, which led me to create Celiac.com in 1995. I created this site for a single purpose: To help as many people as possible with celiac disease get diagnosed so they can begin to live happy, healthy gluten-free lives. Celiac.com was the first site on the Internet dedicated solely to celiac disease. In 1998 I founded The Gluten-Free Mall, Your Special Diet Superstore!, and I am the co-author of the book Cereal Killers, and founder and publisher of Journal of Gluten Sensitivity.

By Scott Adams

Published on 07/26/1996

Iodine testing for DH: This
is an old procedure used to create DH blisters. By applying a 30 pe

Iodine testing for DH: This
is an old procedure used to create DH blisters. By applying a 30 percent solution of
iodine as a patch, a DH outbreak can be created. This may be applicable in some patients
when a biopsy is needed and no blisters are available.

Immunofluorescence: The
indirect immunofluorescence test shows that the serum of a patient contains specific
antibodies that bind to different areas of the epithelium. The direct immunofluorescence
tests by a skin biopsy shows a specific diagnosis pattern of DH. Traditionally this biopsy
is obtained from the buttocks. If no outbreaks are observed in this area, the biopsy is
recommended for another area where the itching is observed. DH Drugs: The common drugs
used to initially control the blisters are: Dapsone, Sulfoxone, and Sulfapyridine. Each
one has different advantages/disadvantages or availability in the treatment of DH. Dapsone
changes the life span of red blood cells from an average of 120 days to 30 days. Dapsone
is known for possible hematologic changes as a common side effect.